Acacia History

Acacia, the only founding member of the National Interfraternity Conference to select a Greek word instead of Greek letters for its name, is a century-old college fraternity with a distinctive origin and distinguished record. While our history has often paralleled that of other national Greek fraternities, in many respects the heritage and development of Acacia have been unique.

Acacia Fraternity was founded on May 12, 1904, at the University of Michigan by 14 Master Masons. The group was an outgrowth of the University of Michigan Masonic Club. Today, our ties to Masonry are strictly informal, and it is no longer necessary to be a Mason or have any Masonic ties whatsoever to be considered for membership in Acacia.

The evolution and development of Acacia over the years has resulted in a fraternity considerably different from what the founders originally envisioned. But, each major change has been an adaptation to new conditions, and each has permitted the fraternity to grow in reputation, influence, and strength. The future will undoubtedly require further change, but so long as Acacia continues to stand for high scholarship, fraternal brotherhood, and human service, the intentions of the founders will be well realized.

For more information about Acacia Fraternity, visit our international website at www.acacia.org, or see the re-founding fathers and Acacia's distinguished alumni.